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Easy Homemade Fluffy Rice Pilaf with Orzo and Herbs

A close-up of fluffy rice pilaf mixed with toasted vermicelli and topped with fresh parsley.
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You need a foolproof recipe for flavorful rice pilaf. This easy homemade version uses orzo, chicken broth, and fresh herbs to create perfectly fluffy grains every time. It is a quick side dish perfect for weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

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  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1/2 cup orzo pasta
  • 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 1/2 cups long-grain white rice (Basmati recommended)
  • 2 1/2 cups chicken broth (low sodium)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped

Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil and butter in a medium saucepan or skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add the orzo pasta and cook, stirring frequently, until it turns light golden brown, about 3 to 5 minutes. Watch closely to prevent burning.
  3. Add the chopped onion to the pan and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
  4. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  5. Add the rice to the pan. Toast the rice, stirring constantly, for 2 minutes until the edges of the grains look slightly translucent. This step helps create a fluffy texture.
  6. Pour in the chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.
  7. Once boiling, immediately reduce the heat to the lowest setting, cover the pan tightly with a lid, and simmer for 15 minutes without lifting the lid.
  8. Remove the pan from the heat and let it stand, covered, for an additional 10 minutes. Do not lift the lid during this resting period.
  9. Fluff the rice gently with a fork. Stir in the fresh parsley and chives before serving.

Notes

  • For a richer flavor, substitute half of the chicken broth with dry white wine and let it cook off before adding the rest of the broth.
  • If you do not have fresh herbs, use 1 teaspoon of dried thyme or oregano along with the broth.
  • This savory rice accompaniment pairs well with roasted chicken or grilled steak.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://savorandpin.com/easy-rice-pilaf-fluffy-recipe/